Breyers Ice Cream $8.85 Million Class Action Settlement: If you bought Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream between April 21, 2016, and August 14, 2024, you might be eligible for a cash payout from an $8.85 million class action settlement. This settlement stems from a lawsuit alleging that Breyers misrepresented its vanilla ice cream as containing only “natural vanilla” when, in fact, some of its flavor was derived from other natural plant sources. In this guide, we’ll provide all the details you need to know about the settlement, how to file a claim, and what compensation you could expect.
Key Information About the Breyers Ice Cream Settlement
If you’ve purchased Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream over the last several years, this class action settlement could result in cash back for you. Here’s an overview of the settlement details:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Settlement Amount | $8.85 million |
| Eligible Products | Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream (All Sizes) |
| Claim Period | April 21, 2016 – August 14, 2024 |
| Compensation Per Product | $1 per product (max $8 for no proof of purchase) |
| Claim Deadline | February 19, 2025 |
| Official Settlement Website | [Link to Settlement Site] |
| Exclusion Deadline | October 31, 2024 |
| Final Hearing | November 21, 2024 |
| Product Reformulation | Breyers to adjust product labeling within 12 months |
Background of the Lawsuit
The class action lawsuit was filed against Breyers’ parent companies, Conopco, Inc., and Unilever United States, Inc., for allegedly misleading consumers about the ingredients in their Natural Vanilla Ice Cream. The lawsuit claimed that Breyers marketed the product as containing “only natural vanilla,” when in reality, some of the flavor came from other plant sources. This was seen as deceptive marketing under consumer protection laws.
It’s important to note that the lawsuit does not claim the product was harmful—only that it misrepresented its ingredients.
Settlement Terms and Details
As part of the settlement, Breyers has agreed to:
- Monetary Compensation: If you purchased Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream between April 21, 2016, and August 14, 2024, you are entitled to $1 per product. If you don’t have proof of purchase, you can claim up to eight products, which could result in a maximum payout of $8. If you have receipts or credit card statements, you can claim for as many products as you purchased.
- Product Reformulation: Breyers has committed to reformulating its Natural Vanilla Ice Cream to ensure the vanilla flavor is derived solely from natural vanilla sources.
- Legal Costs: A portion of the $8.85 million will be allocated for legal fees and administrative costs associated with the settlement.
How to File a Claim for the Breyers Ice Cream Settlement
If you believe you’re eligible for compensation, here’s what you need to do to file a claim:
- Check Your Eligibility
Ensure you purchased Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream between April 21, 2016, and August 14, 2024. Only purchases made within this period are eligible for compensation. - Gather Proof of Purchase (if available)
If you have receipts or proof of purchase (e.g., credit card statements), you can claim for the exact number of products you bought. If you don’t have proof, you can still claim for up to eight products. - Submit Your Claim
You can file your claim online or by mail.- Online: Visit the Official Breyers Settlement Website and follow the instructions to file your claim form.
- By Mail: Download the claim form from the website and send it to:McKinley et al. v. Conopco, Inc. et al.
Claim Administrator
P.O. Box 2813
Portland, OR 97208-2813Be sure your claim is postmarked by February 19, 2025.
- Wait for Your Payment
Once your claim is approved, you will receive your payment via check. Processing may take several months, depending on the volume of claims.
FAQ
1. How much compensation can I receive?
You can receive $1 for every Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream product you purchased. If you have proof of purchase, you can claim for the exact number of products you bought. Without proof, you can claim up to eight products, which equals a maximum payout of $8.
2. What if I don’t have a receipt?
Even without a receipt, you can file a claim for up to eight products, resulting in a payout of $8.
3. What is the deadline to file my claim?
You must submit your claim by February 19, 2025. If you’re filing by mail, ensure it’s postmarked by this date.
4. Can I opt out of the settlement?
Yes, you have the option to opt out of the settlement by October 31, 2024. If you opt out, you won’t receive compensation, but you can pursue legal action against Breyers individually.
5. Will Breyers change its product?
Yes, as part of the settlement, Breyers has agreed to reformulate its Natural Vanilla Ice Cream to ensure the vanilla flavor only comes from natural vanilla sources.
6. When will the final settlement be approved?
The court will hold a Final Approval Hearing on November 21, 2024. Payments will be issued once all claims are processed after the settlement is approved.
Important Deadlines
- October 31, 2024: Deadline to opt out of or object to the settlement.
- November 21, 2024: Final approval hearing.
- February 19, 2025: Last day to file a claim for compensation.
If you’ve purchased Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream during the eligible time frame, this class action settlement could put cash in your pocket. Make sure to submit your claim before the February 2025 deadline, and stay informed by visiting the official settlement website for the latest updates.